Private dairies exploiting farmers

Srikakulam, March 10: YSRCP Doctors Wing President and former minister Dr. Seediri Appalaraju criticized the ruling coalition for its inaction against private dairies exploiting dairy farmers. 
Speaking to media, he accused the government of siding with private dairies, which are lowering milk prices and citing fat percentage issues to exploit farmers.
Dr. Appalaraju highlighted that under the previous YSRCP government, the Jagananna Palavelluva scheme stabilized milk prices, benefiting farmers. Thousands of women-led dairy cooperatives were established, and a partnership with Amul ensured fair pricing. 
As a result, buffalo milk prices increased from Rs. 56-66 to Rs. 71 per litre and cow milk rose from Rs. 25-28 to Rs. 34. Between 2021 and 2023, multiple price revisions further raised rates, bringing buffalo milk to Rs. 89.76 and cow milk to Rs. 43.69 per liter, adding Rs. 97.5 crore to farmers' income.
He stated that YSRCP’s intervention forced private dairies to increase purchase rates, benefiting farmers by Rs.4,900 crore. 
Overall, Jagananna Palavelluva and market reforms generated Rs.5,100 crore in additional earnings. Daily milk procurement rose from 1.20 crore to 1.54 crore liters, placing Andhra Pradesh fifth in national milk production. 
However, under the coalition government, the state's ranking has fallen due to sectoral neglect.
Dr. Appalaraju condemned the government's failure to protect farmers and urged immediate intervention to curb unfair practices by private dairies.